To cast a spell on someone; to enchant or charm someone so strongly that they seem unable to think clearly or resist.
From 'be-' (to cause to be) + 'witch' (a person who practices witchcraft). The verb emerged in the 16th century as witchcraft fears spread through Europe, originally describing the literal act of casting spells but evolving to mean 'enchant' or 'captivate.' The word carries the historical baggage of witch hunts and persecution.
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